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The “Circle of Hope” necklace is handmade by Niwot-based artisan jeweler, Jeanette McPherson. The artist has introduced this reasonably priced piece into her line to offer folks comfort during social distancing and the coronavirus. (Jeanette McPherson/ Courtesy photo)

From artists painting murals in public spaces to musicians hosting impromptu living room concerts, creatives have found new ways to beautify neighborhoods and provide much-needed entertainment during these times of social distancing. One Niwot artisanal jeweler has crafted an accessory to bring a sense of comfort to those dealing with isolation during this global health crisis. Each “Circle of Hope” necklace, made from hammered sterling silver, is handmade by Jeanette McPherson of Little Wing Jewelry in her home studio.

Original handcrafted jewelry by Jeanette McPherson. In addition to offering the public the “Circle of Hope” necklace to foster comfort and connection during the coronavirus, the Niwot-based artist continues to create new one-of-a-kind pieces. (Jeanette McPherson/ Courtesy photo)

While the former antique shop owner normally works with cut stones, semi-precious gems and saltwater pearls, she saw an opportunity to offer a reasonably priced accessory that provides a message of optimism and connection to those feeling the strain of social distancing. For McPherson, the symbol of a circle holds many meanings, including ones of inclusivity, protection and strength. The necklace is available on her site for just $12.50. Shipping is free.

Daily Camera: Art seems to be so essential to uplifting people during this global health crisis. As a creative, what inspired you to craft a piece with a message of hope during this time?

Jeanette McPherson: I created the “Circle of Hope” necklace for those who are feeling isolated and alone because of restrictions due to the COVID-19 virus, especially affecting our at-risk and elderly population. I woke up one morning thinking about our senior citizens and those in care facilities and how alone they must feel with no one around to comfort them or just give them a hug. I wondered what I could do to help, maybe something to show there are people out there who love them and are thinking about them.

Jeanette McPherson, the artist behind Niwot-based Little Wing Jewelry, chats with a booth visitor at an art show at The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park in November 2019. McPherson has designed a “Circle of Hope” necklace to help foster connection and comfort during social distancing. (Jeanette McPherson/ Courtesy photo)

DC: Are a portion of proceeds from sales donated to healthcare workers?

JM: No, I haven’t set up any way to donate to healthcare workers, but I think that’s a great idea. My intent was to give hope to as many people as I could by offering the “Hope” necklace at the lowest price I could afford, a solid sterling silver circle, which I could make myself in the home.

DC: Are you seeing a spike in online sales? Have you had a chance to communicate with customers and find out who they are gifting the pieces to?

JM: Though I have a website, littlewingjewelry.com, it’s new, I just started it this year. I have not generated many sales through the website. I’ve directed friends to go there through Facebook, but it’s hard to get much business that way. I’ve not been able to reach as many as I’d like. Though my friend bought eight of them and she said her friends were thrilled to receive their “Hope” necklace and they loved it. I’ve given quite a few away to friends whom I thought could use a bit of cheering up. One of them is a survivor of cancer and has been quite lonely having to isolate herself. It was a little bright spot in her life. My sister gave one to a friend of hers that works in a children’s hospital for cancer patients. A few have purchased one for themselves. It would be nice if more people could receive the little gift of hope.

A piece crafted by Jeanette McPherson, of Little Wing Jewelry, that is similar to the single “Circle of Hope” necklace. (Jeanette McPherson/ Courtesy photo)

DC: I imagine you do a lot of your business at shows and art fairs. As an artisanal jeweler, are you missing that community right now?

JM: For the past 10 years I’ve been the main caregiver to my three grandchildren while my daughter finished up her education and then struggled to find work. She and the grandkids now live with me. I continued to work steadily in my home studio on my line of jewelry and last November I was chosen to participate in a juried show in Estes Park, the first show I had done in many years. It was a tremendous success and I thought when spring came I would be out doing more shows and promoting my jewelry business. Unfortunately, that’s not been the case.

DC: What are you hoping the “Circle of Hope” necklace brings to others?

JM: My wish is that the “Circle of Hope” necklace will bring a little joy to those feeling isolated and alone, a little something to brighten up their day, to let them know someone’s thinking of them and they’re loved. When you can’t give a hug, give hope.